Tomatoes are a staple in kitchens around the world — whether you’re tossing them into salads, simmering them into sauces, or enjoying them fresh off the vine. But while they’re one of the most popular fruits (yes, technically a fruit!), not every tomato is safe to eat. Some can give you clear warning signs that it’s better left uneaten.
So the next time you come across a tomato with small, neat holes or one that appears nibbled, take it as a red flag. These visual clues are more than just cosmetic damage — they could mean the fruit is compromised, and eating it might not be worth the risk.
What Causes Those Strange Holes or Bites?
If you’ve ever picked a tomato only to notice tiny puncture holes or gnawed areas, you’ve likely encountered the work of pests or wildlife. Here are a few common culprits:
- Tomato Fruitworms (Helicoverpa zea)
These sneaky caterpillars drill small, round holes into tomatoes and feast on the flesh inside, often leaving behind a hollowed-out mess. - Cutworms & Armyworms
These pests chew through the skin, damaging both the outside and inside of the fruit. - Snakes and Rodents
While it’s not common, wildlife like snakes or thirsty rodents may bite into juicy tomatoes — especially during dry spells when water is scarce. - Fruit Flies & Beetles
Small insects sometimes lay eggs inside the fruit. When the larvae hatch, they feed on the tomato from within, causing hidden rot and contamination.
Why Damaged Tomatoes Aren’t Safe to Eat
It’s tempting to simply slice away the bad spot and salvage the rest, but with punctured tomatoes, the risk runs deeper than what you see. Here’s why you should avoid them:
- Bacteria & Mold Love Broken Skins
Once a tomato’s skin is punctured, bacteria and fungi can easily invade and multiply, turning your once-healthy fruit into a breeding ground for spoilage. - Hidden Insects or Larvae
Tiny holes often mean there’s something lurking inside — like insect larvae — that isn’t visible from the outside. - Rotting or Fermentation
Damaged tomatoes spoil much faster. They may develop a sour, off-putting flavor or even begin fermenting, which leaves an unpleasant, alcoholic aftertaste. - Possible Toxins
Some pests leave behind waste or secretions that could irritate your digestive system or make you sick if ingested.
Can You Cut Around the Damage?
Many people assume they can just trim away the bad spot and eat the rest — but that’s not always safe. You should skip the tomato altogether if:
- The fruit feels soft, mushy, or is leaking liquid.
- You spot mold or strange discoloration inside once cut open.
- You’re unsure how long it’s been damaged or exposed.
When it comes to your health, it’s always better to be safe than sorry:
When in doubt, toss it out!
🧑🌾 How to Prevent Pest-Damaged Tomatoes
A little prevention goes a long way when it comes to protecting your homegrown or store-bought tomatoes:
- Inspect your tomatoes regularly for early signs of damage.
- Use natural pest repellents like neem oil or diatomaceous earth.
- Cover your plants with fine mesh netting to block insects from laying eggs.
- Harvest ripe tomatoes as soon as possible to avoid attracting pests.
- Store tomatoes in a clean, dry place away from open windows or entry points where bugs can sneak in.
🧠 Final Thought
Your health is worth more than saving one bad tomato. Anytime you spot a tomato with tiny holes, chew marks, or unusual surface damage, steer clear of it. These are often signs of insect invasion, internal decay, or contamination that can’t be seen at a glance.
Be mindful, inspect your produce, and trust your instincts — when in doubt, it’s always safer to skip it!
